Helen Steeden - 11/12/1917 - 12/07/2003

Nan, Mum, Little Nan, Helen, Nel or Nelly-
Different relationships, different generations.
Yet this same, single, most remarkable person was responsible for shaping and enhancing our lives... my Nan.

A unique lady who treated everybody in the same manor and gave everybody the same opportunities, irrespective of age or circumstance.
A person who overcame any problem she faced with such courage and dignity.
A great teacher, provider and protector.

If you were under Nan's wing (as most of us were at some stage in our lives), you felt an enormous comfort of being safe, loved and cared for. However, it has to be said, if you did something wrong or upset her, boy! did you know it!
Though such was her loving determination, she would always help you to right the wrongs.

We ll know of Nan's loving, emotional qualities:
The joy she brought to a party,
How she was a stickler for hygiene,
The way she always held a tissue in her hand,
Her tot of whiskey before going to be,
Her ability to help everyone,
And of course, her famous story telling.

No one could tell a story like Nan!
Her mannerisms and enthusiasm kept you enthralled time after time, even if you had heard the story before.
In fact, you would often find yourself requesting certain stories from her.

She obviously drew from her own experiences and memories, and at times with mixed emotions. Though, very importantly, she never had cause for regret.

These wonderful stories have virtually become part of our family tradition.
Passed down from Nan to Sylvie, to grandchildren and even great grandchildren.
Told by Nan time and time again... and time again.
And yet always received with such anticipated excitement.

To Nan, the passing on and creation of all memories was most important and worth far more than any family heirloom. And quite rightly so.
Such family values, which thankfully, she instilled in us all.

So many stories, so many people and events, over so many years.
And I'm sure many of them shall be shared amongst us all here today.
It's hard to pick a favourite. So for now at least, I won't.

I would like to spend what little time is left, to simply pay tribute and say just how proud I am, and we all are, of Nan.

Personally, Nan played a huge role in my development and upbringing.
Literally from new born to the present day.
Her influence and wisdom has shaped the very person I am. And in turn, this is also reflected in her great grandchildren of which she adored.

They too, also grieve with us, and wish to express their love and gratitude, their thankfulness and heartfelt warmth, for being able to simply share a part or Nan's life. Nan was living proof that such loving, unselfish, and truly remarkable people, do and can exist in this world. And we too, should all feel honored and privileged to have shared so much with just of them.

Love, pride, dignity, respect, are just a few of the key words that I automatically associate with Nan.

Held in such high esteem, in awe, of what many of us aspire to be.

We love you Nan.

How/When did you get your start? What was your big break?

When I was at school I was in a punk band. We also operated a pirate radio station in my friend’s attic. (Although I’m not sure I should talk about that now, looking at the way history has gone. It seemed a lot more innocent back then). My break in the music business happened by mistake. I was production-designing movies when I was asked to do a music video. The Video was Fugees ‘Ready Or Not’ it was a success so I carried on.

Who is the most interesting person you’ve worked with and why?

The most interesting person I worked with is Malcolm Mclaren (Producer of the Sex Pistols) He helped me listen to music in a different way. He had a fierce way of being straight to the point, with a romantic want for excellence. It was all about the ‘Nod Factor’ If the track made you nod there was a good chance you were on to something.

Where/how do you hear about new music?

I have a lot of friends who tell me about new tracks or Bands. I also check some of the music blogs like ‘Hype Machine’ and ‘Pitchfork’ Of course we have the great KCRW and I listen to BBC Radio 1 every day.

What book would you recommend as a must read for someone and why?

The Art Of War’ By Sun Tzu

It’s good to understand history that applies to business. It tends to repeat its self with different clothes on.

What 5 albums would you say are a must listen to for everyone and why?

‘Zebra’ Jack DeJohnette featuring Lester Bowie trumpet solo

‘Paris’ Malcolm McLaren

‘Scary Monsters’ David Bowie

‘The Pleasure Principle’ Gary Numan

‘The White Album’ The Beatles

Growing up, which artists inspired you the most?

Living in South London it was ‘David Bowie’ He taught us escape is possible.

What advice would you give to a young artist just starting out in the music business?

Follow your dreams. Talk less do more. Try and finish the projects that you start. Learn how to balance a check -book.

How are emerging technologies changing the music industry in general and specifically your field?

Emerging technology has streamlined a lot of the workflow. In music video digital cameras and multipurpose editing software have increased the ability to achieve quick and less expensive ‘effects- driven’ content. There is a downside to this as people are prepared to shoot more coverage with less focus on perfection in- camera.

What are your “secrets to success?”

I hope we get copies of all who answered this question. Certainly I’m not sure if it’s a secret but everyone I know who does well in the industry lives and breathes their job. Determination and hard work seems to be the mix that pushes people into excellence.

How did you learn about The Recording Academy and why did you join?

The Recording Academy is the home to music professionals and music lovers. While celebrating outstanding musicians, technicians and maverick’s achievements the Academy also with ‘Music Cares’ and other reach out programs helps educate, inspire and advocate on musicians and music lovers behalf.